Can I ask a question about your experiences two up on the Bonnevilles. I am an older rider who is not that interested in speed. Minimal motorway travel. My wife is new to pillion riding and last year we went round the NC500 and Orkney. What i look for is comfort and pulling ability. We currently run a Tiger 800 but I have always wanted a Bonny. Two years ago I test rode the 900 and 1200 as well as the 900 Scrambler. I loved the 900 but had reservations about the 1200 in city traffic - almost too much torque in the lower gears. But what is the 900 like with luggage and pillion? (i'm 85 kilos and my wife 70 kitted up) Any experiences please share. Thanks.

I test rode a T120 with the wife on the back and she rated the comfort highly. In the end l bought an older 865 which is perfectly adequate for a bit of bimbling. Longer tour-not so sure but l did replace the stock seat which was poor, get some decent luggage and a 900 would do you if used as you describe. 1200 without doubt better though.

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As you intend touring 2 up personally I'd go for the 1200 for the extra power and it's better braking due to the twin discs but you need to test ride one 2 up to make sure you both like it. Also check what the max payload is so you know before you buy if it's capable of carrying you both plus your luggage as Triumph don't quote it on their website

Thanks for the comments. In the 70's i would have sold my soul for one of todays modern classics. (My other bike is an Interceptor 650!) I love the style and the feel and sound of a twin. The Tiger (and maybe a Bonneville) is primarily for our two up riding. I'm inclined to the 900. Brakes can be improved. But when I test rode both bikes the 900 felt more integrated and right. The 1200 felt a little bit coarser (!!) albeit with gobs of torque.

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Millsy65
Sorry i have gone lots of places on my Bonnie and not pulled yet. But i love it felt the same as you with the 1200 and got the 900. And a good 865 is terrific so much grunt all the way through the range. The seat may need attention if you are long distancing.
Regards
Joe

Did a comfortable week in France with the wife on my 2014 T100, fitted comfier seat, suspension changes, top box and soft paniers. However my winter steed, a Honda 500x is ultimately more comfortable and better suspension but unlike the Bonnie no one ever stops to admire it.....